He goes on, "Rather it is of the opinion that the actions of USADA have highlighted the need in all cases for athletes to be able to come forward with evidence that will help rid sport of doping cheats."

WADA said it was looking forward to the results of UCI's full and independent investigation it announced.

WADA was the last agency with authority to appeal USADA's decision to strip Armstrong of his Tour de France titles and to ban him from the sport for life.

Armstrong has always maintained that he did not dope.

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